Crank Position Sensor?

Ensuring efficient engine operation requires teamwork between your engine assembly's different units. One of the main players in maximizing engine performance in your car is your Crank Position Sensor. This sensor is the part of your vehicle that records your engine's RPM to determine your crankshaft's rotational speed. The data gathered by this crankshaft position sensor is used by your engine computer in determining, controlling, and improving your car's ignition timing, fuel efficiency, and power output.

The Crank Position Sensor works using the principles of the Hall Effect. It comes in the form of a magnetic coil covered by a stationary sensor, and a toothed metal disk that's installed on top of the crankshaft. Current passes through the metal coil; and as the toothed disk rotates and moves past the coil, the magnetic field in the coil is disrupted, generating current pulses. The engine computer uses the pulses to calculate engine speed. Typically built to be long-lasting, the crankshaft position sensor isn't a unit that breaks down easily. But sometimes, this sensor may become worn out, especially if it's exposed to intense heat and/or moisture. Engine fluid leaks can also affect this sensor's performance. And once this sensor fails, you can expect engine misfires, motor backfires, excessive engine vibration, and bad auto idling. Worst case scenario? Your car won't start.

If you suspect that your engine's poor performance is due to a Crank Position Sensor gone bad, then your best recourse is to check this component for signs of damage. While you may expect this sensor to be mounted in front of the crank, the location of the crankshaft position sensor varies depending on the type of engine the car is using. This sensor can be mounted near your front bumper, at the back of your engine, under your engine, or even near your fender. We recommend consulting your owner's manual to easily locate this sensor.